European Geopolitics, 1756–1783

Abstract

Abstract The Seven Years’ War caused a considerable upheaval in the balance of power in Europe. While the Treaty of Paris (10 February 1763) marked the triumph of Great Britain and the humiliation of France, the Treaty of Hubertusburg (15 February 1763), which settled the German side of the conflict, sanctioned the rise of Central and Eastern Europe in international relations. Previously subject to the preeminence of France, Europe would live to the rhythm of a pentarchy comprising France, Great Britain, the House of Austria, Prussia, and Russia until World War I. While France’s influence declined and Great Britain lacked control over European relations, Prussia, Russia, and Austria were free to assert their ambitions. The dynamism of these three predatory powers led to the first partition of Poland in 1772. Faced with the danger of an uncontrollable Central and Eastern Europe, France and Great Britain came to reconsider their old rivalry.